Genuine Exchanges

The Syndicat Mixte d’Amenagement et d’Equipement du Mont Ventoux (France): a cooperative association working to support 43 town and village councils and the lead partner for the Mont Ventoux UNESCO Man and Biosphere reserve and the future Mont Ventoux regional nature park.

The Syndicat Mixte d'Aménagement et d'Equipement du Mont Ventoux (a joint association managing planning and amenities) was established in 1965. Backed by Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Regional Council, Vaucluse Departmental Council and 43 town and village councils and the Municipal Association of Ventoux Sud, it manages territorial development programmes. In 1990, Mont Ventoux was awarded UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve status. Area: 98,742 hectares. Population of member town and villages: 90 405.

The territorial development process that began with securing Biosphere Reserve status continues with plans for a Regional Nature Park. The proposed park has a number of purposes: preserving biodiversity, environments and resources, improving the quality of life for local people as well as creating and safeguarding jobs linked to these local resources.The SMAEMV also coordinates several networks: Natura 2000 sites of Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque, the Ventoux Leader Programme, the Vélo Ventoux Bike Network andVentoux Saveurs local produce initiative.